When Jesus rebuked his disciples for their inability to heal the little child, he emphasized that their lack of faith makes it impossible for them to succeed in that act of healing. This is because he has been with them enough for them to learn from him if they had listened to him. The act of faith comes from hearing the word of God. Jesus used this episode to demonstrate that faith is a response to God’s invitation to listen. Hence when we listen to God, we are empowered to follow in his footsteps and perform wonderful works like Him.
The disciples were not able because they have not listened and followed well. That is why when Jesus said, “how much longer must I be with you?” He points to the fact that they have not been listening and learning. For we cannot know the faith unless we listen, and by listening, we learn and grow in faith.
A child is sent to school from his/her tender age to listen and learn. He or she becomes knowledgeable when he/she listens to and learns from the teacher. Good teachers keep repeating their explanations about a topic until everyone shows some level of understanding of the subject matter. This is the same as faith-building. One is nurtured from tenderness to maturity in the things of God. This nurturing involves consistent encounter with the word of God, which empowers us as we listen and understand.
Catechism Classes, Nurturing Listening
When I was a kid, I learned a lot through constant repetition of the very words I was taught. During the catechism classes, I memorized a lot of the prayers, doctrines and teachings that I know today. I was able to answer every question in the ‘Penny Catechism book’ because these words were repeated over and over again and I learned them even without understanding some of them. Today, I still know these works but with more clarity about their meanings.
So when God said to the Israelites through Moses, “Listen, the Lord your God is one God and you shall love Him…. and shall teach your children these words repeatedly”, he brings us to acknowledge the power and the value of listening. For some hear the words but fail to listen to them. To listen is to hear with great attention.
The fact that these words of faith would be repeated to the children of that time wherever they may be, encourages our own generation to carry the kids along in the journey of faith through constant repetition of the words of God to them. Catechism classes for kids are still relevant and important in our time. Children express what they hear repeatedly even if they do not understand. That little first stage of knowledge is very important. Like the mustard-sized faith that moves mountains, most of us owe our present faith to such little beginnings.
[Readings: Dt 6:4-13; Ps 18:2-3a, 3bc-4, 47 and 51; Mt 17:14-20]
Congratulations on your accomplishments!! May you have much success in your endeavors. My priest is from Nigeria and was a professor. When you are assigned a parish, speak from the heart, engage the parishioners.
A wonderful reflection Fr. Anthony. Listening to the Lord without doing what He tells us leads to unproductive spiritual life. Thank you.
Very nice. St Paul says faith comes through hearing but provided we are listening. Great post. Thank You